Hofstra University’s Late Night Show 'Two Weeks Notice' premieres

As the stage lights dimmed, the stage manager began her countdown from 10, and the crew adjusted its cameras one last time before the live stream began. The audience sat in anticipation as they awaited the host to come out and greet them.

At first glance, it may seem like a professional television show, but is, in fact, a Hofstra University, student-run and created late night talk show titled, “Two Weeks Notice.”

The first episode kicked off the spring semester on Saturday, Feb. 23, after students returned from their month-long winter recess. “Two Weeks Notice” is one of five television shows that are a part of the HEAT Network, the television network created by Hofstra students in 2001.

Co-hosted by Seann Morgan, a senior television and film major, and Sydney Pastor Poe, a senior television studies major, the show follows the structure of a typical late night show. The production features an opening monologue followed by guest interviews – usually with university alumni – then concludes with a game.

Students have the opportunity to work with professional equipment without the supervision and guidance of a professor. The idea is to create a mock professional setting to further prepare students for the post-graduation world. From writer’s meetings to crew sign-ups, students have a multitude of opportunities to expose themselves to the television industry.

“HEAT has really allowed me to get a feel for the television industry and prepare for what’s to come after college,” said Victoria Murphy, co-head writer for “Two Weeks Notice.”

Students like Luke Becher, a sophomore television and production major, have worked their way up to positions, such as associate producer which is the stepping-stone to producer.

“The associate producer kind of learns and watches what the producers do, so that in the future one of us will become the producer," said Becher. "We have to kind of learn how the producers run the show behind-the-scenes and during the show.”

To become a leader, like head writer or producer, students must prove their dedication and dependability. This begins with signing up to crew a show, which involves anything from operating a camera to being available to help in areas that are needed.

“We try to make it a really welcoming environment for people and we want everyone’s voice to be heard,” said Lara Susman, a senior television and production major, who is also the co-head writer for the show.

With a high number of involvement in the show, it creates a community of students striving towards success in the television industry.